The stage is set for an electrifying clash as Real Madrid welcome eternal rivals Barcelona to the Bernabeu on Saturday night in the season’s first El Clasico.
With just three points separating the bitter rivals in the La Liga standings, you can expect fireworks.
Ahead of kickoff, here are three things to look out for.
Midfield Battles
Both teams boast exceptional midfield talent, but Barcelona’s midfielders have shown greater creativity this season. Pedri and Marc Casado have formed an impressive double pivot, and the only question is who Hansi Flick will deploy in the #10 position: Dani Olmo, now back from injury, or Fermin Lopez, fresh from a two-assist performance against Bayern Munich? Either way, Real Madrid’s trio of Jude Bellingham, Luka Modric, and Aurelien Tchouameni will need to bring their A-game to outshine their opponents.
Vinicius Junior vs Kounde/Cubarsi
Vinicius Junior is undoubtedly Real Madrid’s main man. He has started the season on fire, scoring or assisting in nine of the club’s ten La Liga matches. He also solidified his claim for the Ballon d’Or with an outstanding hat-trick in their midweek UEFA Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund.
Vinicius Junior will come up against Jules Kounde, and occasionally 17-year-old defender Pau Cubarsi, who covers when Kounde ventures forward. This is one battle that could really shape the outcome of this game
Who will win the tactical battle?
Flick has transformed Barcelona’s fortunes in a short time by playing ultra-attacking football, refusing to rely on individuals but on a set structure. He has coped with several injuries too and has managed to get the best out of almost everyone, especially the rejuvenated Raphinha. However, Carlo Ancelotti remains one of the most experienced coaches on the planet and he knows how to do the most important thing; win.
